In the early middle ages Wales was divided in several kingdoms, each with its own laws. Hywel ap Caell, usually known as 'Hywel Dda' or Hywel the Good, who became king over nearly all of Wales in 942, is credited with having brought these different systems into a single body of law, although three different versions exist: for Venedotia (north Wales), Dimetia (south Wales), and Gwent (south-east). The Law continued in use in Wales until the union with England in 1536. Facing a page of ink drawings, the text starts with the name of King 'Hywel Da', the initial 'H' surmounted by a crown.